Viola Davis to Receive First #SeeHer Award

ANA and A&E Will Present Award During Critics' Choice Awards

Viola Davis will be the recipient of the first-ever #SeeHer award during the 22nd Annual Critics' Choice Awards. The honor is being presented by the Association of National Advertisers in conjunction with A&E Network.

The organizations said they selected Ms. Davis, who stars on ABC's "How to Get Away with Murder," because she "embodies the values set forth by the #SeeHer mission, including pushing boundaries on changing stereotypes and her recognition of the importance of accurately portraying women across the entertainment landscape."

"Partnering with A&E for this new award and having critics recognize a trailblazer who has advanced the #SeeHer initiative is a key milestone for us," Bob Liodice, CEO of ANA, said in a statement.

"We are thrilled to partner with the ANA on #SeeHer. It is crucial that women, especially young women of every shape, size and ethnicity, see themselves reflected in the media. Only a small portion of the female population is portrayed, and we want to help change the dialogue," Elaine Frontain Bryant, exec VP and head of programming, A&E Network, said in a statement.

Ms. Davis will receive the award during the Critics' Choice Awards on Dec. 11. Amy Adams will present her with the award.

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Jeanine Poggi

Jeanine Poggi covers the TV industry and how broadcast and cable networks and distributors are adopting to the changes in the world of TV advertising. She joined Ad Age in 2012, following six years covering the retail and media industries and other financial sectors for Women's Wear Daily, Forbes and TheStreet.